The visitors were probably the happier team following the goalless stalemate at Brunton Park, although they rarely threatened to make it three points as the home side had cause to rue missed first-half chances.

Kavanagh saw his side's winless streak extended to five games.

He said: "I thought we were excellent and did everything bar score. We were the more energetic side and always on the front foot, taking the game to the opposition and creating a lot of chances. We probably had enough chances to win three games. We just could not put the ball in the net.

"It was difficult to play a passing game on the pitch and there's also a bit of pressure at this time in the season.

"I am disappointed and some of the fans were frustrated and I understand that. But it's certainly not a crisis in any shape or form.

"We have a lot of young players, but we showed the mental toughness for the fight ahead despite our lack of experience."

till I suppose it still gives him at least another year in the job. By the time it comes around , he can always make up another excuse. First it was 3 months , then a year .....Next year ? Whats his excuse with Van Persie ?